More power adapters and other travel stuff

Turns out that I need a new (or, more precisely, different) set of power adapters for South Africa. Amazon has a set of adapters for $9.99, so I snagged a couple. Taking a tip from Devin, I’ve put all my power adapters into a big ol’ Ziploc bag so they don’t scatter at the bottom of the bag.

Last trip, I forgot the USB headset I use with Skype. This time I was going to try using my Bluetooth headset (a Netcom GN6210) with the MacBook Pro; however, after I paired the headset, I kept getting Bluetooth audio failures. The strength of the GN6210 is that it also works with my desk phone, which I use a lot more than my cell phone because I get poor reception in the basement. I could replace it (or give it to Arlene to use upstairs), but I’ll probably wait until I move up to the new attic office.

I also got a Verizon “world phone” SIM. At least in theory, this should let me take my US phone number with me when I travel, using Vodafone’s GSM network. There’s apparently no way to test that in the US because the SIM only works on Vodafone’s world-wide network. I’ll be taking my newly repaired JASJAR to use as a phone and for demos; I do one really cool Exchange ActiveSync demo where I throw the JASJAR’s screen up on the projector using SOTI PocketController.

Amazon also supplied me with a PATRIOT from Wenger Triple Gusset Rolling Case w/ Removable Tote, a fancy name for what looks like a very sturdy rolling laptop case. It will hopefully accommodate both computers and all the other crapola I need to take on extended trips; I’m a little worried because it’s way too thick to fit in the overhead compartment of CRJs, and I fly those a lot. I may end up reserving it for double-computer trips like the “Get Ready” events.

Unfortunately, I’m not packed, and I’m not even finished with the work I’m supposed to have done before I leave… guess I’ve been too busy shopping.